Here Are 12 Ways Artists Can Branch Out (and Boost Their Income)

Written by Katie Conroy of advicemine.com

While producing art is rewarding on its own, there’s nothing like getting paid for your creativity. After all, artistry is a legitimate career, even if it takes a little extra work to find paid opportunities. However, regardless of your specialty or passion, there are ways to branch out and boost your income all while continuing to do what you love. Take a look at these tips from Loose Screw Tattoo on how to do just that.

Go Freelance with Your Craft

Artists of every background and discipline have successfully sold their skills via freelance work. Consider going it alone on project-based work that fits your niche.

Create a freelance website to market yourself as an artist.
Explore artist and illustrator gigs with a range of companies.

Find New Ways to Expand

Whatever your current medium, changing things up can be a creative challenge. However, it can also mean more opportunities for paid gigs.

Hone your skills by developing a unique style.
Try a new medium and break out of your comfort zone.
Registering your business as an LLC reduces paperwork and could save you money come tax season.
Once your LLC is set up, conduct an IRS EIN search to get a government-issued tax identification number so you can open financial accounts in your business’s name.

Share Your Expertise with Others

Teaching others to do as you do is a great way to capitalize on your talent. Branching out into teaching can be a moneymaker for many artists.

Learn to teach kids your art form.
Organize workshops for aspiring artists.
Start a YouTube channel and monetize your expertise.

Head to Digital Spaces

Connecting online affords you opportunities to earn more income from diverse audiences. Using digital spaces can help you promote and sell artwork.

Promote yourself (and your art) on social media.
Sell your designs online or as digital downloads.
Make money as a published creator on sites like Webtoon.

Finding ways to diversify your portfolio as an artist can also boost your income. Whether you’re sourcing freelance clients, holding online classes, or selling digital downloads, there’s a way to make your art into a lucrative product.

Go Freelance with Your Craft

Artists of every background and discipline have successfully sold their skills via freelance work. Consider going it alone on project-based work that fits your niche.

Create a freelance website to market yourself as an artist.
Explore artist and illustrator gigs with a range of companies.

Find New Ways to Expand

Whatever your current medium, changing things up can be a creative challenge. However, it can also mean more opportunities for paid gigs.

Hone your skills by developing a unique style.
Try a new medium and break out of your comfort zone.
Registering your business as an LLC reduces paperwork and could save you money come tax season.
Once your LLC is set up, conduct an IRS EIN search to get a government-issued tax identification number so you can open financial accounts in your business’s name.